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The Economic Development division of the SCTDD assists communities and businesses in our 13-county region in fostering a pro-business environment that will allow for the healthy growth and development of the private sector businesses. We work closely with county and city officials to create economic opportunities for individuals and promote the advancement of the region as a whole, as well as working with individual businesses in the region to promote expansion and job retention.
One of our main functions is to assist communities and businesses to access various federal, state and local grant and loan programs to facilitate the location and expansion of businesses that can create employment opportunities for residents of the area. We have a corporation, South Central Tennessee Business Development Corporation, that is licensed by Small Business Administration (SBA) to make loans under the Section 504 Program. Economic development includes activities that provide additional employment opportunities, increase tax revenues and/or improve the overall business climate of the area.

SBA is charged with aiding individuals start a business, and once in operation, keep it a going concern. Services in place to yield this end include counseling, capital and contracts. Free one-on-one business counseling is offered by our three resources, Small Business Development Centers, SCORE and the Women’s Business Center, strategically located throughout the state. For capital to start or expand an operation, we have SBA Guaranteed Loans disbursed by participating lenders throughout the nation. Upon meeting the bank’s lending criteria, individuals may secure up to $5,000,000 in funding. Contracting opportunities abound within the federal government with 23% of federal contract awards being designated for small businesses. To aid in government contracting, SBA has several self-certification and formal certification programs which position entrepreneurs to bid on government set-aside projects.

UT-CIS’ mission is to deliver solutions that help Tennessee businesses grow, succeed, and create high quality jobs. A major part of the UT-CIS mission is providing Tennessee manufacturers with the growth, performance, regulatory, and sustainability solutions they need to become more competitive and profitable in the global marketplace. We accomplish this through training, project implementation and facilitation, and coaching.

The University of Tennessee Center for Industrial Services provides consulting solutions to help companies improve and grow. Our philosophy is to assess the company needs and provide only services that are value added. We utilize the most experienced consultants and most recent technologies. Resources with industry experience and University professors are available through the coordination of CIS Solutions Consultants as needed

Vision Statement

The TSBDC is a network that, in cooperation with resource partners, provides a single, comprehensive source for solutions to assist in the creation, management, expansion, and sustainability of businesses in Tennessee. Through its services, the TSBDC network contributes to the growth and development of Tennessee's economy by assisting with domestic and international trade issues.

Mission Statement

Recognizing that small business is the economic backbone of the State of Tennessee, the TSBDC's mission is to be the premier provider of quality solutions to potential and existing small businesses' needs through consultation, education, referral, and support services. By providing these services through its interactive network of resource partners, the TSBDC promotes growth and prosperity in the domestic and international markets of the business community and enhances its economic impact on the State of Tennessee.

Our Guiding Principles are:

To provide business consultation, education, technical assistance and related services which are responsive to business community needs in the most efficient and effective manner.

To raise awareness and earn respect for the delivery of high quality, innovative programs and services.

To continually measure, evaluate and report the quality, productivity and impact of the TSBDC which will result in maximum financial support for its mission.

To continually improve and enhance the leadership and organization effectiveness of the TSBDC Network.

The Center for Workforce Development (CWD) delivers business and industry training, continuing education and other community service in southern Middle Tennessee. If you want to develop new skills, improve your organization's performance or just learn new things, you have found the right place!

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The chamber relies on community support to fulfill its mission of serving the families and businesses of Wayne County and the surrounding area. Membership in the chamber is a good investment in your business and your community. Join us today!